The Kirov's opening
production of "Le Corsaire" during this London season served
to whet everyone's appetite for the quality that can be expected over
the next fortnight.

From the opening
notes we were treated to lavish sets and beautiful, colourful costumes
that illuminated the opera house stage. However, it was the quality of
the dancing that will excite the London ballet fans. From the corps de
ballet upwards we were treated to near perfect technique and were able
to marvel at the sheer strength running through the company. The corps
timing and formation placement seemed spot on, and all the dancers captured
the exuberance and energy of the piece beautifully.

The highlight for
me was Act 2, where we were treated to some fine soloist performances.
Diana Vishneva made a beautiful Medora and I'm sure lost count of the
many perfect pirouettes she delivered with startling ease. Igor Zelensky
was certainly a crowd favourite last night and commanded the stage with
assured confidence from the moment he strode on. His jumps continue to
show amazing elevation and he covered the opera house stage with fluency
and panache.

And mention should
be made of the female soloists and coryphees who took on the roles of
the Odalisques with assurance, really seizing the opportunity to show
off the strength of their technique.

"Le Corsaire"
made a perfect summer evening's light entertainment and a good start to
the Kirov's season.